Florida Atlantic quarterback Jason Driskel made his second consecutive start Saturday against Middle Tennessee State at FAU Stadium.

After a strong week of practice, Driskel beat out sophomore Daniel Parr. Parr was the starter for the first three games of the season before being replaced by Driskel last week.

“We just go in whenever we’re told,” Driskel said during the preseason. “It’s kind of a situation like tag one guy in and another guy comes out. It’s not like ‘Oh, I only got five reps that rack and you got six.’ It’s more of a situation where we go in, groups switch or we feel like we’ve been in for a while, someone else will tag me out, or I’ll tag someone else in.”

Driskel hadn’t spoken to the media for more than a month because he was projected to be the third-stringer entering the season. That changed after expected starter De’Andre Johnson was diagnosed with blood clots last month and Parr struggled early in the season.

Driskel, who has appeared in 25 games throughout his career, has stayed ready despite the circumstances. He’s been in a quarterback competition since 2015. Last year, he split reps with Parr and did the same with Jaquez Johnson the previous season.

“Playing quarterback especially, you have to be prepared, whether you’re going to play zero plays or 100,” Driskel said earlier this season. “Obviously, I’ve been every position here. I’ve been third-string, second-string and I’ve started games. Your level of preparation should be consistent.”

FAU coach Lane Kiffin said he is hoping to solidify the position sooner than later. He has no plans of using a two-quarterback system.

“I doubt it,” Kiffin said. “One guy needs to play and do the right things so we can win.”

Howell Jr., and Al-Shaair back

The Owls welcomed back running back Gregory Howell Jr., and linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair. Both did not play last week against Buffalo because of injuries.

While Al-Shaair’s injury was undisclosed, Howell was dealing with a sore groin. Al-Shaair has led the Owls in tackles the past two seasons. A senior, Howell had a career-high 175 yards two weeks ago against Bethune-Cookman.

Johnson a captain

Although Johnson is expected to miss the season because of blood clots, he was present at midfield when the captains from both teams met at midfield. The other captains were receiver Harrison Bryant and linebacker Rashad Smith.

Gilbert remains a starter

Freshman safety Zyon Gilbert started his consecutive straight. He continues to remain ahead of veteran Ocie Rose on the depth chart. Last week, Gilbert had a career-high 15 tackles against Buffalo.